Shimano STEPS error W013: Pedal sensor failed to initialise
The crank torque and cadence sensors did not finish their startup check when the system was switched on. Motor assist is cut and the display speed reading often drops to zero until the sensor initialises correctly. Walk assist is also unavailable while the warning is active, so the bike behaves like a normal unpowered bicycle.
| Drive system | Shimano STEPS (E5000, E6100, E7000, E8000, EP6, EP801) |
| Severity | Warning |
| Keep riding? | Ride with caution |
| Typical cost | Dealer diagnostic typically runs EUR 30 to EUR 60, torque sensor or magnet replacement EUR 120 to EUR 280 fitted, and a full drive unit replacement EUR 600 to EUR 900 including labour. |
Likely causes
- Pressure on the pedals or cranks when the system is switched on
- Loose, dirty or magnetised debris on the chainring or crank magnet ring
- Moisture in the crank or drive unit connector after washing or wet weather
- Firmware mismatch after a recent E-Tube Project update
- Damaged wiring or connector between the crank and drive unit
- Cold-start glitch on older firmware versions
How to fix Shimano STEPS error W013
- Stop the bike on level ground and switch the system fully off.
- Take your feet off the pedals and stand clear of the cranks so no torque is applied.
- Switch the system back on with no load on the cranks and wait five seconds.
- Slowly rotate the cranks forward by hand and confirm the speed reading appears on the display.
- Inspect the chainring and crank magnet area for dirt, metal swarf or loose fixings, and clean if accessible.
- Update the drive unit firmware via Shimano E-Tube Project if a newer version is available.
- If W013 returns after two clean reboots, book a dealer for diagnostic and torque sensor checks.
Warranty: W013 caused by a genuine Shimano torque sensor or drive unit fault within two years of purchase is normally covered under the STePS drivetrain warranty, but water ingress, crash damage and missed firmware updates are excluded.
Typical cost: Dealer diagnostic typically runs EUR 30 to EUR 60, torque sensor or magnet replacement EUR 120 to EUR 280 fitted, and a full drive unit replacement EUR 600 to EUR 900 including labour.
Frequently asked
Can I reset shimano error W013?
Yes. Switch the system off, take your feet off the pedals and switch it back on with no load on the cranks. If W013 clears and does not return during the next ride, the reset has worked. If it comes back, the torque sensor needs dealer diagnosis.
Is it safe to keep riding with W013?
Riding without motor assist is mechanically safe but tiring on hills, and the bike behaves like a normal unpowered bicycle. Avoid relying on it for timed commutes and head to a dealer soon. Walk assist should not be used while the warning is active.
How much does fixing W013 cost and is it covered by warranty?
A dealer diagnostic in Europe usually runs EUR 30 to EUR 60, and a torque sensor or drive unit repair runs EUR 120 to EUR 900 depending on which part has failed. Genuine Shimano component faults inside the two-year warranty window are normally covered, while water ingress and crash damage are not.
Related Shimano STEPS codes
Manuals and video
Official source: si.shimano.com
Not an official Shimano STEPS document. Compiled from workshop experience and public service information; details can differ per system version and bike brand.